One of the problems all fishermen encounter is filling reels from a spool of line without another person around to help. You've probably seen a dozen or more solutions put into action - including placing the spool in a bucket of water or looping a rope through the spool and around your leg. I knew I could come up with a better way, and after a bit of trial and error, I think I've designed an easy-to-make device that will allow you to fill your reels from any-size spool of line, all by yourself.
First, I build a base and frame out of ¾-inch plywood, making sure the outside frame is wide enough to fit the widest spool I plan to use, with several inches of space left on each side. On each side of the frame, I cut out 6-inch-long slots that accommodate the rod that goes through the center of the spool of line. These slots allow the rod to move up and down in relation to the size of the spool you are using.
Next, I cut a threaded steel rod to the desired length, making sure to cut the ends neatly so I can thread on the washers and wing nuts. Glue down a remnant piece of carpet to the base, and you're ready to go.
Simply thread the rod through the spool and slots, and while pressing the spool down against the carpet, tighten the wing nuts down on the washers. This keeps constant pressure on the spool's edge, allowing you to wind the line on tightly.
To keep the rig stationary, use a C-clamp to secure it to a dock box or table.
Gonzalo Ferrer / San Juan, Puerto Rico
